Havasu Falls 3-day Camping AdventureAn oasis below the south rim of the Grand Canyon | Discovery Treks, LLC |
Havasu Falls is home to the Havasupai tribe (Havasupai means "people of the blue-green waters"). This tiny Indian Nation of 600 people lived here before the arrival of the first Europeans. The steady water source here is the result of Havasu Springs, which drains a huge underground aquifer at the rate of 28,000 gallons per minute. The blue-green color of the water is created from suspended solids of calcium carbonate, which eventually forms a limestone layer in the streambed, giving Havasu its distinctive look. You really feel like you are in the "heart of the Grand Canyon" in this deep isolated part of the world.
Itinerary for this adventure:
Day 1 - We meet you at our Flagstaff headquarter hotel and drive you to the trailhead. If driving from Las Vegas, we can meet you in Seligman or Peach Springs. We embark on scenic drive to the top of Hualapai Canyon, and then begin our trek walking down to the junction of Havasu Canyon and then down further to our camp. The trail drops deeper and deeper as we watch the rock layers change and become older. (Rock formations at the bottom of the Grand Canyon are over two billion years old, half the age of the earth.) On a scenic break, we enjoy lunch. This trip is a packhorse assisted hiking trip. The packhorses will transport your duffels with your personal belongings and the food and camping gear we provide. You will carry only water and a small day pack for camera and personal items.
Eight miles down we pass through the Havasupai tribal village. Another two miles until we arrive at our shaded camp area. We unload the gear and food brought down by the packhorses, set up our comfortable camp. While the guide prepares a delicious dinner, enjoy your chance to splash around in Havasu Falls. After a long day of driving followed by the journey down the canyon, a restful evening is well earned by all.
Day 2 - You awaken to the smell of fresh coffee and breakfast being prepared by your guide. Then we are off for a day of exploring the canyon and the incredible waterfalls. We will visit Havasu Falls, known for swimming and photo opportunities, and Mooney Falls. To reach the bottom of Mooney Falls, conquer a challenging descent down a chain ladder through rock tunnels. Of course, for the faint of heart this is considered an option that does not have to be done as the view from the top is just as beautiful. Additionally, visit new wonders resulting from Mother Nature's 2008 flood temporarily referred to as "New" Navajo Falls and Rock Falls.
We have a deli lunch and then either an afternoon of further exploring or just relaxing by the creek side. Maybe this is your time to meditate and just look at the beautiful rock faces above you. Take a swim or enjoy a little siesta.
Another wonderful dinner is prepared before the shadows deepen. The night skies are a myriad of stars you have maybe never seen before. Arizona skies are renowned for their stargazing and several astronomical observatories are spread throughout the state. Eventually its time to burrow into your tent for another evening of deep sleep. You may find your dreams take you to places you would never have imagined, being here in the Canyon seems to do that.
Day 3 - On our last day, we're up early for a nutritious breakfast and preparations to head back to the trailhead. It seems going back up the canyon that the views are always different than on the way down. There is so much to see and so many memories you will have once you are home again. We reach the trailhead by late morning and take a last look at the Canyon's vastness while enjoying a deli lunch. We arrive back in Flagstaff by about 4:00 pm. We hope to have provided you with a wonderful experience "below the rim".
For this trip, we include ground transportation round trip from Flagstaff, Seligman or Peach Springs, professional backcountry guide, all necessary gear including pro-quality backpacks, tents, sleeping bag systems, Therm-a-rest mattresses, camp meals prepared by our guides, camping and tribal fees. Please read the "What to Bring Checklist" so you will have all you need with you. Space on this trip is limited, so it is important to reserve well in advance. A deposit of $350.00 will hold your space and final payment is due 60 days before travel. We recommend trip insurance to protect your financial investment.
If you have any questions please call or email us. We look forward to providing you a lifetime adventure!
